Lancraft Fife and Drum Corps

[7] English learned to drum under the instruction of J. Burns Moore, a nationally prominent drummer and instructor, and long time percussionist with the New Haven Symphony Orchestra.

He also won the North East States, US National Championship, held in Brooklyn, New York, in 1930, and the world title at Naugatuck, Connecticut, in 1928.

Sanford A. Moeller, a champion rudimental drummer, made it a point to cultivate a personal relationship with Dan.

He recognized that Dan was an exceptional Burns Moore product and wanted to support and acknowledge the fact that he was an excellent drummer representing the 'ancient traditions'.

In September 1930, Moeller drummed every step from Madison Square Garden to the Boston Armory for the opening of the American Legion National Convention.

Moeller appreciated the attention and took the time to thank Dan in a type-written letter a few weeks later, thus, showing the mutual respect and friendship the two had for each other.

In memory of Dan English, a trophy was presented by Lancraft at the August 1932 State Convention held at Meriden, Connecticut.

Many activities and management duties are performed by corps members whose marching days are over, and who are honored every year on the last Thursday in April at the annual Old Timer's Night.

The uniform is a replica of that worn by General George Washington and his staff during the War for Independence in the late 18th century.

Since 1914, the Lancraft Color Guard has honored the first Native Americans in the United States by wearing leather Indian garb with full feathered war bonnets and by carrying and firing Brown Bess muskets at parades, musters and civic commemorations.

Lancraft moved into the new clubhouse, Moriarty Hall, in March 1963 and held their very first Olde Timers Night on June 13, 1963.

[16] Lancraft has attended these ancient musters in Deep River and Westbrook every year since these events were first organized in 1953 and 1910 respectively.

In September, Lancraft attends the annual Colonial Faire and Muster organized by the Sudbury Ancient Fyfe and Drum Companie.